SAAB 9-5 (2009)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 1,050 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
79%
Total Tests (2024)
1,050
Avg Mileage
116,189 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,727
Is the 2009 SAAB 9-5 reliable?
Average reliability. Expect some repairs as it ages. That's close to the national average of 82%. It also outperforms the SAAB brand average of 75%.
At 15 years old, 79% of SAAB 9-5s from 2009 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 1,050 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 116,189 miles.
How does the 2009 SAAB 9-5 compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2009 SAAB 9-5 has 116,189 miles on the clock, which is in line with the expected 111,000 miles for a 15-year-old car, suggesting normal everyday use.
Best year to buy a SAAB 9-5?
The most reliable year is the 2012 model with a 88% MOT pass rate, while the 2002 model has the lowest at 71%. The 2009 sits between the two at 79%.
How much does a 2009 SAAB 9-5 cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
SAAB 9-5 by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2012 | 88% | 50 | 91,077 mi |
| 2011 | 85% | 622 | 110,433 mi |
| 2010 | 83% | 1,096 | 112,776 mi |
| 2009 | 79% | 1,050 | 116,189 mi |
| 2008 | 79% | 1,659 | 122,813 mi |
| 2007 | 77% | 1,891 | 123,119 mi |
| 2006 | 75% | 1,825 | 130,088 mi |
| 2005 | 74% | 1,671 | 129,775 mi |
| 2004 | 73% | 1,364 | 131,575 mi |
| 2003 | 74% | 869 | 134,877 mi |
| 2002 | 71% | 828 | 125,369 mi |
| 2001 | 77% | 620 | 122,330 mi |
| 2000 | 76% | 519 | 127,259 mi |
| 1999 | 79% | 601 | 126,506 mi |
| 1998 | 73% | 322 | 118,343 mi |
Checking a specific SAAB 9-5?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2009 SAAB 9-5
The 2009 SAAB 9-5 is a family car with a 1910cc diesel engine. 1,050 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a reasonably common sight on UK roads. Among all cars from 2009, the average MOT pass rate is 75%, and this model beats that benchmark.
With an average of 116,189 miles at 15 years old, SAAB 9-5 owners drive about as much as the UK average.
2009 SAAB 9-5 Fuel Costs
The 1910cc diesel engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 48 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,037 per year at current diesel prices of 148p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year). Diesel cars of this age should have their DPF (diesel particulate filter) checked, as replacements can be costly.
What does it cost to own a 2009 SAAB 9-5?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,727 (£144/month), broken down as £1037 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £500 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 79% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
SAAB 9-5 Reliability Trend
Newer SAAB 9-5s show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 5 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2009 SAAB 9-5
At 15 years old, the SAAB 9-5 is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2012 model has the highest pass rate at 88%.
Alternatives to the 2009 SAAB 9-5
If reliability is your priority, there's one similar car with a higher MOT pass rate. Here are comparable diesel cars with similar engines:
- VOLKSWAGEN GOLF (2011) 78% pass rate (-1%) from 97,916 tests
- VAUXHALL ASTRA (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 92,611 tests
- VOLKSWAGEN POLO (2010) 74% pass rate (-5%) from 75,715 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2011) 81% pass rate (+2%) from 57,568 tests